Networking Tips for Small Business Owners
Have you heard the phrase “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know?” This is particularly true for small businesses. The concept of networking is around creating and developing relationships for mutual benefit.
Many people shudder at the thought of networking. I know when I first started my own business I worried networking experiences would be full of fake smiles and limp handshakes — everyone being nice to each other just to get something in return. It wasn’t long before I realised that genuine connections in business are one of the pillars of success.
Why network?
- Share knowledge, ask questions and seek advice
- Find opportunities to promote your business and encourage referrals
- Share your success stories and lessons learned to inspire others
- Create relationships to help manage feelings of isolation
- Participate in industry events to keep you actively engaged with updates and developments in your field.
With much of the Covid pandemic behind us it is time to get back out into the real world in our physical forms and meet people. These are the relationships where you will find connections and like-minded people — not in a Zoom call.
How do I network a small business owner?
- Attend Local Group Meetups And Events. — https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/find/?keywords=brisbane%20business%20networking Monthly or quarterly in-person networking events set up by a coordinator for small business owners in your area.
- Learn who the shakers and movers are — make a point to introduce yourself and get to know successful small business owners in your area,
- Understand that all contacts are important — you never know when someone in an industry different to yours might be able to help out with a complex question.
- Be open-minded, warm and friendly — networking is challenging for everyone, no matter what it looks like on the surface.
- Hosting your own — there’s no reason not to run a networking event yourself if you can’t find one that ticks your boxes. I talk to multiple business owners each day who would love to find a networking group right for them.
- Chamber of commerce — The Brisbane Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization created through a partnership of businesses, civic leaders, and residents working together to enhance Brisbane’s economic landscape. For a yearly fee, you can receive invites to regular mixers, attend grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremonies, receive a weekly newsletter, access Brisbane’s only business and community journal, and many other benefits https://www.brisbanechamber.org/
Like anything, networking gets easier the more you do it, and when you go along with an open mind and an interest in other people and what they do, you’ll find yourself surrounded by inspiring people who are looking for ways to make each other successful.
Final tips!
- Make sure you have your elevator pitch prepared
- Have courage
- Try something new
I have attached a spreadsheet for you to keep track of your networking contacts — I hope you find this useful and I’d love to hear how your networking experiences go.
